If you never seen "Mr Holland's Opus" then your in luck. If you then you know that this film seems like a re-make but what hell it has Andy Griffith in it. Also it really hits home that "Art Programs in schools" are needed and are in danger. (My favorite Scene in the whole film has to do when a mother says her son might be good at sports but he can play this tuba). During the holiday season, Bethlehem School goes under review by a stern school administrator Cal Peterson (Gerald McRaney), sent to eliminate programs to save money and the school itself. Following long review, Cal decides to eliminate the music program led by music teacher Lily Waite (Naomi Judd). Cal is unaware that his teenage niece Fern (Alison Pill), whom he has been taking care of, has been changed by the music program. There are many sub-plots, including the hijinks of Jake Peterson (Andy Griffith). With a musical back ground, this film is unique in itself, it reaches out to the viewer not only through acting but through the joy of Christmas music, showing tradition in a new light, and showing that you are only as old as you feel. This film is worth watching. Beware that the film is sold sometimes under the tile of "A Song For the Season". Watch this film. It is worth watching. It is worth owning. It might even propel you into sending a letter to your favorite teacher..

I personally have thought this movie was fantastic! i am a huge fan of Naomi Judd and thoroughly enjoyed her part in the film. Gerald Mcraney seemed like a good match for her in the story. McRaney always seems to play a tough guy in all his roles. which is another reason i loved his part because Judd simply softened his heart and made him sweet. a first for Gerald. Alison Pill was simply wonderful! her voice was captivating and the love she had for her music teacher was enormous. Surprising to see Andy play such a hard core ex soldier. but he played the part of a stubborn old man very well. i was amazed at how greatly the characters clicked with their parts. the directer made very wise choices on actors.

A Holiday Romance reworks the story of White Christmas for modern times. It is a pleasant movie, worth watching for the Christmas season. However, expect a double dose of the overworked situations of an authoritarian parent and the child who suffers. The Major General's story of White Christmas is split between two characters so that the movie works well as a separate tale. Only if you are familiar with the original would you get an inkling that the two stories are related. Gerald MacRaney does his usual strong character. Music is a plus if you like Christmas carols jazzed up a little. Naomi Judd does a credible job. Andy Griffith shows his Matlock image rather than the lighter Andy Griffith Show personification.

At first, I wasn't certain whether or not I wanted to watch this film, since I happen to deeply loathe Country/Western music. However, I watched it anyway... since I needed some help with getting into the Christmas mood, this year. Well, color me surprised! It turned out to be a good movie after all. A strong storyline, believable situations and outcomes and strong performances all around. But, what impressed me most was the young girl who played the part of Fern. She's a 14 year old actress by the name of Alison Pill. She showed such a wonderful range of emotions in her portrayal. To me, the best reason to see this film is her AND the duet that she sings with Naomi Judd, at the end. It's priceless! P.S. The other thing that made me happy with this movie... NO C&W MUSIC! ;-)